Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman has now missed two consecutive training sessions at Atalanta, intensifying the growing rift between the Nigerian international and the Serie A club following the collapse of his proposed move to Inter Milan.
The 27-year-old forward, who has publicly expressed his desire to leave Atalanta this summer, was absent from the team’s training base in Zingonia on both Monday and Tuesday. His continued no-show is being interpreted as a form of protest, as tensions mount over Atalanta’s refusal to sanction his transfer.
Lookman had agreed personal terms with Inter Milan, who submitted a €45 million offer last week. The proposal included €42 million upfront and an additional €3 million in performance-based bonuses. Despite the substantial offer, Atalanta rejected the bid, prompting a strong reaction from the player.
The situation escalated when Lookman took to social media to publish an emotional and strongly worded statement, in which he accused the club of “broken promises” and “poor treatment.” He also confirmed that he had submitted a formal transfer request, expressing deep frustration over what he described as a breach of trust.
“I’ve been treated badly as a human being and as a professional footballer,” Lookman wrote. “I was assured I would be allowed to leave if a suitable offer came in this summer.”
Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi later acknowledged that there had been a gentleman’s agreement between the club and Lookman. However, he claimed the deal included a key condition that Lookman would not be allowed to join another Serie A club, thereby blocking the move to Inter Milan.
Lookman, who is recovering from a minor injury, had been scheduled for light individual training sessions this week. His decision to skip both days suggests the standoff is far from resolved and signals a growing disconnect between the player and the club’s hierarchy.
The former Everton, Fulham, and RB Leipzig attacker played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League-winning campaign last season, scoring several crucial goals and earning widespread praise for his performances. His potential departure was expected to be handled with mutual respect, but the current breakdown in communication has cast doubt over any amicable exit.
Lookman’s camp is reportedly hoping that sustained pressure will push Atalanta to reopen negotiations with Inter or consider offers from clubs outside Italy. However, with the club standing firm and Lookman digging in, a resolution may not be imminent.
As pre-season preparations continue across Europe, Lookman’s future remains in limbo and Atalanta now face a growing dilemma: hold onto a disgruntled player or cash in before the window closes.
